The Conformity Gate conspiracy theory has led fans to believe that Stranger Things Season 5 might not actually be over. While the season finale gave the characters a seemingly happy ending and tied up loose ends, many think it could be a facade. Viewers speculate that the “perfect” ending might actually be Vecna manipulating them, controlling their lives by giving them a fake sense of happiness. Because of this, some believe Netflix and the Duffer Brothers may have a secret episode that has yet to be released.
What is Stranger Things 5’s Conformity Gate theory and why fans believe it
The Conformity Gate theory suggests that Vecna may still be alive and might have created perfect lives for core characters, still keeping them in control. Here’s the list of hints that made fans think about this theory.
- Fans noticed that the number seven appeared frequently in the latest season. It could be a link to Vecna’s curse, which requires 7 days to take full effect. Since the finale premiered on New Year’s Eve, January 7 could be the day the truth about Vecna’s control over the characters’ lives is revealed, possibly in a new episode.
- Another theory suggests that all the characters may have been defeated and died. They could also be living in Vecna’s illusion, which could result in a dark ending for the series.
- The hosts, Vance and Mindy Flare, of WSQK have names that, when rearranged, become Vecna and Mind Flayer. There was also an instance when Mindy mentioned controlling the audience, which could be a nod to Vecna’s manipulative powers.
- While Will disclosed his sexuality, he also mentioned liking going into the woods. This feels odd given that it’s a place that is deeply tied to his trauma. He also said he enjoys milkshakes from Melvald’s, which is actually a hardware store. However, the store might have sold milkshakes when Henry was a boy. Will mentioning things he arguably shouldn’t have could be a sign that Vecna is controlling him.
- In one scene, Caleb McLaughlin’s Lucas Sinclair broke the fourth wall and uttered, “I don’t believe in coincidences.” This could also be considered the creator’s way of confirming the theory.
- During the graduation scene, every student in the audience appears to be sitting in a Henry Creel pose, with their hands on their lap, suggesting Vecna’s control.
- After the Dungeons & Dragons game, everyone neatly placed their books on the shelf, but the arrangement revealed a subtle clue. The order of the books spelled out “X A LIE,” which some interpret as an intentional hint.
- Mike’s shocking resemblance to Henry, when he reveals that he wants to be a storyteller, seemingly adds to the theory.
